By definition, a custom table drape is any piece of fabric that is used to cover the surface of any table, whether it may be for protection or for design purposes. Some would refer to these drapes as table drapes, and may vary in the design, size, shape, and the like. There are some drapes which bear the family crest or insignia, giving the table as a centerpiece of furniture that exudes pride and prestige. There are some designs which are more common and usual and are used to protect the surface of the table to get in direct contact with food or water.
There are also some custom table drapes which are large and wide enough to cover the whole table and also drape the sides, while there are some smaller and more accented drapes which serve only to create a partial covering, thereby emphasizing on the sides or sections of the table.
Table cloths and table drapes may more or less be interchanged during identification, but a more distinct purpose of a custom table drape is to provide covering and protection so that the table may look more appealing and organized, especially when not being used. For example, chairs which are part of the table set may be worn or battered for years of use. This is where the generous amount of overhang of some custom table drape design may come in handy, covering the battered furniture. Some may also find good purpose for the overhangs of such drapes to cover and conceal the legs of diners, as well as hide the shelves and drawers created with some table designs.